Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation as a Wyoming Renter

If you are a renter in Wyoming living with a disability, you have rights under both state and federal laws to request reasonable accommodations from your landlord. Understanding the process can help you ensure your home is accessible, safe, and suits your needs—without facing discrimination. This guide explains your rights in Wyoming, how to make requests, what forms to use, and where to seek help, so you can advocate for accessible housing confidently.

Your Rights to Reasonable Accommodation in Wyoming

Wyoming renters are protected by the federal Fair Housing Act as well as the Wyoming Fair Housing Rules. These laws require landlords to provide reasonable accommodations—meaning changes to rules, policies, or services that enable individuals with disabilities to use and enjoy their home.

• Examples include allowing service animals even in a no-pets property, installing grab bars, or assigning a reserved accessible parking space.
• Landlords cannot charge extra fees for reasonable accommodations.

How to Request a Reasonable Accommodation

The process is designed to be accessible to all renters. You do not need a lawyer to get started, but following these steps will help protect your rights and ensure your request is clearly documented.

Step 1: Prepare Your Request

• Reasonable accommodation requests do not have to be in writing, but it is best to submit a written request to your landlord or property manager for documentation.
• You only need to explain that you (or someone in your household) have a disability and describe the accommodation needed. You do not need to disclose details of the disability.

Step 2: Use an Official Written Request Form

Although Wyoming does not have a state-issued reasonable accommodation form, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Form is widely accepted, including in Wyoming.

• Form Name: HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter
• When to Use: Use this form if you'd like to request a change to rules or facilities for a disability-related need. For example, if you need a support animal in a no-pets property, fill out the form and deliver it to your landlord.
• View and download the HUD Sample Letter

Step 3: Submit Your Request

• Deliver the form or a written letter to your landlord or property manager in person or by certified mail to create a record.
• Keep a copy of your submission and any correspondence.

Step 4: Wait for Your Landlord’s Response

• Your landlord should respond promptly (within a reasonable time, usually 7-14 days).
• If the landlord requests additional information, you only need to show the accommodation is necessary, not share private medical confidentials unless essential.
• If your request is denied, the landlord must provide a legitimate reason—such as extreme cost or fundamental administrative burden.

What If Your Request Is Denied?

If your landlord refuses your reasonable accommodation without a valid reason, or retaliates against you for making a request, you can file a complaint:

• With the Wyoming Fair Housing Office: The Wyoming Department of Workforce Services – Fair Housing handles housing discrimination cases statewide.
• With HUD: File directly through the HUD online complaint portal.

Your case may go before the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services or HUD, which act as the fair housing enforcement bodies in Wyoming. There is no separate housing tribunal.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation

• Wyoming Fair Housing Rules
• Wyoming Landlord and Tenant Act
• Federal Fair Housing Act

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to use a specific form to request reasonable accommodation in Wyoming?
   You are not required to use a specific form, but using the official HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter helps ensure clarity and a written record. Always keep a copy.
2. Can my landlord ask for proof of my disability?
   A landlord may ask for verification that you have a disability and need the accommodation, but you do not need to disclose the specific diagnosis. A doctor or care provider can write a short letter verifying the need.
3. How quickly must my landlord respond to my request?
   Landlords are expected to reply within a reasonable period (typically 7–14 days), but some situations may justify a longer timeline.
4. What if I need an accommodation urgently?
   If there is a safety or urgent access issue, indicate this in your written request and follow up—landlords are encouraged to respond as quickly as possible to urgent needs.
5. What can I do if my landlord refuses my request or retaliates?
   You may file a fair housing complaint with the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services or HUD. Keep all communications and related documents as evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Wyoming renters with disabilities have strong protections under state and federal law to seek reasonable accommodations from their landlord.
• Written requests provide crucial documentation; use the HUD Sample Letter for clarity.
• If your request is denied, official agencies like the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services can investigate and enforce your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Department of Workforce Services – Fair Housing: Provides information, complaint forms, and contact details for housing discrimination issues.
• HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process: Learn about your rights and how to file a complaint federally.
• U.S. Department of Justice – Fair Housing Act Overview: Full legal text and explanations.

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1. Fair Housing Act (federal)
2. Wyoming Fair Housing Rules
3. Wyoming Department of Workforce Services – Fair Housing
4. HUD Sample Reasonable Accommodation Request Letter (form)
5. Wyoming Landlord and Tenant Act

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